Greymouth

New Zealand Tablet, 22 July 1909, Page 1134

Greymouth

(From Our Own Correspondent.) July 15. The Marist Brothers' School football team added another win to their credit when they defeated Taylorville Public School last week by 64 points to nil. At the annual debate between representatives of Sfc. Columba Club and Trinity Institute, which was held in Trinity Hall on the evening of July 12, the subject for discussion was, 'Considering Japan is an ally of Great Britain and a recognised Power amongst civilised nations and allows British subjects to enter her territories, are we justified in excluding Japanese subjects from Britisu dominions?' There was a very large attendance of the general public' The Mayor of Greymouth presided, and

Mr. R. H. Turton, S.M., acted as judge. Mr. E. Casey (St. Columba) lead off in the affirmative, and based hta objection to the admission of the Japanese on economic and moral grounds. He was ably supported by Messrs. A. O'Donaghue, W. Duffy, and T. Heffernan, the latter's address being the best elocutionary effort of the evening. The negative side of the question was placed very well by Mr. L. F. de Berry, M.A. He based his chief arguments on the three premises in the question and enlarged on them in their bearing on the Empire. Messrs. Kelham, Smithers, and Petrie followed in support of the negative. At the conclusion the judge awarded the debate to St. Columba, who were congratulated on their victory by Mr. L. F. de Berry. Votes of thanks to the judge and chairman concluded proceedings, which had been thoroughly enjoyable and educational throughout. Subsequently the St. Columba Club entertained those connected with the debate at a supper at Victoria Tea Rooms, where a pleasant halfhour was spent. Quite a compliment was paid to our* club after tho debate, when the Mayor, who is also a vice-president of the Trinity Club, waited on Messrs. E. Casey and T. Heffernan and asked them if they would be willing to debate against Socialism with the two leading Socialists from the State Collieries. The Mayor, in urging them to accept his proposal, said his only regret was that there was not a hall in Greymouth ]arge enough to accommodate the audience that was certain to assemble to hear this all-important matter debated. After mature consideration, Messrs. Casey and Heffernan acceded to the Mayor's request. The debate, which is to be a public one, will take place in the Town Hall within five weeks, the proceeds of same to be devoted to the Grey River Hospital. The Mayor, who is quite enthusiastic over the matter, has promised to make all arrangements.